Colombia predicted lineup vs DR Congo for FIFA World Cup 2026
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Néstor Lorenzo’s side will look to continue their strong start to the FIFA World Cup.
Colombia could move a significant step closer to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026 when they face DR Congo in their second Group K fixture. Los Cafeteros began their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. It helped showcase the attacking quality that has made them one of South America’s most dangerous sides.
Luis Díaz starred during the opening match. Colombia’s experienced core once again demonstrated why they are considered serious contenders to progress deep into the tournament.
DR Congo also arrive full of confidence after holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their World Cup opener. Their disciplined defensive structure and dangerous counter-attacking approach caused problems for one of Europe’s strongest teams. They will ensure Colombia approach this fixture with caution.
A victory would place Colombia in an excellent position heading into the final round of group-stage matches. It makes team selection particularly important for Néstor Lorenzo.
Who all will be expected to be in the starting lineup?
Goalkeeper Camilo Vargas is expected to retain his place between the posts after another dependable performance in Colombia’s opening match. The experienced goalkeeper brings leadership, composure and valuable tournament experience to the backline. His shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area continue to make him one of the most trusted figures in the squad.
Daniel Muñoz and Johan Mojica are expected to occupy the full-back positions, providing Colombia with energy and attacking support from wide areas. Muñoz’s overlapping runs and defensive work rate make him a constant presence on the right flank. Meanwhile, Mojica offers balance on the opposite side through his pace and ability to deliver quality crosses into the penalty area.
At the heart of defence, Davinson Sánchez and Jhon Lucumí are likely to continue their partnership. Sánchez brings physicality, aerial dominance and leadership. Meanwhile, Lucumí offers composure in possession and strong positional awareness.
Together, they form a pairing capable of dealing with DR Congo’s physical forwards. They can also help Colombia build attacks from the back.
Gustavo Puerta and Jefferson Lerma are expected to operate in central midfield. Puerta provides energy, mobility and progressive passing, helping Colombia transition quickly between defence and attack. Alongside him, Lerma offers defensive stability and ball-winning qualities.
It will allow the more creative players ahead of him greater freedom to influence proceedings. James Rodríguez is once again expected to orchestrate proceedings from advanced areas. The Colombian captain remains the creative heartbeat of the team. He is capable of unlocking defences with his vision, passing range and set-piece delivery.
Jhon Arias should occupy another advanced role, bringing intelligent movement, technical quality and relentless work rate. His ability to drift into pockets of space often creates opportunities for teammates. He helps Colombia maintain attacking fluidity.
Luis Díaz remains Colombia’s biggest attacking threat. The winger enters the fixture after an outstanding performance against Uzbekistan. He will look to use his pace, dribbling ability and finishing quality to trouble the DR Congo defence.
Leading the line is Luis Javier Suárez. His movement inside the penalty area and goalscoring instincts provide Colombia with a reliable focal point in attack. The striker’s ability to convert chances could prove decisive in what is expected to be a competitive contest.
Colombia’s predicted line-up against DR Congo
Predicted Colombia XI vs DR Congo (4-2-3-1): Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Gustavo Puerta, Jefferson Lerma; James Rodríguez, Jhon Arias, Luis Díaz; Luis Suárez
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Balancing her medical studies with a strong passion for Indian football, Preethi has been a dedicated follower of the sport. Her speciality is covering and discovering stories, talking to players, conducting their interviews, and drafting articles. She particularly covers Hyderabad FC and other stories from the ISL and I-League.